Malaysia is gearing up to revolutionise its digital infrastructure. In September, a private company launched a new data centre worth over US$50 million to complement existing data centres in accelerating digital transformation across the country. But more needs to be done before Malaysia has something to cheer about. The country’s digital ambitions will not progress beyond buzzwords unless an Access to Information (ATI) act is enacted.
Malaysia’s Digital Economy Blueprint, launched in 2021, details the country’s vision to become a regional leader in the digital economy by 2030. The blueprint recognises the need to review and amend laws including on intellectual property, competition, and internet infrastructure. However, the federal government it yet to table an ATI motion in Parliament. There is no better time for Malaysia to adopt and implement the said law if it wants to uphold the country’s democratic rights.
The Digital Economy Blueprint acknowledges open data as a requirement for digital transformation with data being an asset for innovators to develop digital solutions. The open data agenda involves proactive disclosure of data whereas an ATI law is typically a by-request disclosure.
